A detailed autopsy report has revealed the horrific final moments of a British woman who travelled to Florida, allegedly with the intention of being killed by a man she met on a fetish website.
The tragic journey of Sonia Exelby
Sonia Exelby, 32, from Portsmouth, Hampshire, flew to the United States on October 10. She reportedly failed to board her return flight to the UK on October 3, prompting concern. Days later, her body was discovered in a shallow grave in a woodland area of Marion Oaks, Florida.
Investigators examining her computer found evidence indicating she was suicidal and had travelled to the US with the goal of being sexually abused, tortured, and possibly murdered. Her family confirmed she had been struggling with her mental health prior to her departure from the UK.
Autopsy findings and arrest
The Marion County Medical Examiner's report, finalised on November 4, ruled her death a homicide. It detailed that Sonia died from stab wounds to her torso. The wounds, between four and seven inches deep, injured her aorta, oesophagus, stomach, spleen, pancreas, and left kidney.
The autopsy also noted a dried, red-orange, "V"-shaped abrasion on her body. A toxicology report found a likely presence of cannabinoids and a blood alcohol concentration of 0.064%, a level which can impair judgement and lower alertness.
Florida police arrested Dwain Hall on charges of first-degree murder and kidnapping. Licence plate readers placed his vehicle at Gainesville airport around the time Sonia arrived. He was apprehended after allegedly attempting to use her credit cards.
Alleged confession and court proceedings
During police interviews, Hall initially denied knowing Sonia Exelby but later allegedly admitted to picking her up and driving her to an Airbnb. He reportedly told investigators that they had discussed bondage, suicide, and her desire to have someone kill her.
Hall's attorney, Julia Williamson, filed a written plea of not guilty on his behalf. She stated this plea would stand until they receive Discovery, the evidence held by the prosecution. "At this time my client will be maintaining his right to silence," she said, adding her condolences to Sonia's family and friends. Hall is expected in court in February.
The case highlights the extreme dangers of online interactions centred around violence and self-harm, culminating in a tragic loss of life far from home.
